As Chelsea prepares to welcome Wolverhampton Wanderers to Stamford Bridge to complete match week 22 of the EPL, both teams find themselves at a critical juncture in the season. Chelsea, struggling to find their footing, will look to turn their fortunes around against a Wolves side eager to build on past successes.
Chelsea’s squad faces uncertainty ahead of the match, with key players including Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia all missing training on Friday and remaining doubts for the fixture. The absence of these players could significantly impact Chelsea’s attacking and midfield options. Additionally, defensive duo Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana are still sidelined, leaving the Blues vulnerable at the back.
On the other hand, Wolves have received a boost with midfielder Mario Lemina available for selection after mending fences with manager Vitor Pereira. However, forward Matheus Cunha is a doubt due to illness, while Toti Gomes is expected to return from injury next week. Boubacar Traore is back in training, but Sasa Kalajdzic and Yerson Mosquera remain long-term absentees.
Chelsea’s recent form paints a troubling picture, as they are winless in their last five league matches (D3, L2) following a promising run of five consecutive victories. With just 43% of their points earned at home this season, the Blues will be keen to rectify their dismal home record, which includes only one clean sheet at Stamford Bridge in league play.
In contrast, Wolves started brightly under Pereira, earning seven points in their first three matches. However, they have since suffered back-to-back 3-0 defeats, putting pressure on their ability to perform away from home. The visitors will aim to avoid the ignominy of becoming the first team since 1910 to lose their opening three league games of a calendar year by three or more goals.
Historically, Chelsea has had mixed results against Wolves. The Blues broke a three-match losing streak with a commanding 6-2 victory in the reverse fixture at Molineux earlier this season. However, Wolves will be looking to replicate their success from last season when they secured a 4-2 win at Stamford Bridge, aiming for back-to-back league victories at Chelsea for the first time since February 1964.
For Chelsea, Cole Palmer has been a standout performer, registering 14 goals and six assists this season. His recent form against Wolves, where he has been involved in five goals in his last two league appearances, makes him a player to watch. If he can shake off any injury concerns, his creativity and goal-scoring ability will be crucial for the Blues.
For Wolves, Matheus Cunha’s previous performance at Stamford Bridge, where he netted a hat-trick in last season’s victory, showcases his potential to be a game-changer. However, his availability will be key, as Wolves look to exploit any weaknesses in Chelsea’s defense.
Conclusion
This match presents a pivotal opportunity for both Chelsea and Wolves to shift the narrative of their respective seasons. Chelsea will be keen to reclaim their home dominance and build confidence, while Wolves will aim to leverage their previous successes against the Blues. With both teams in search of a much-needed victory, fans can expect a fiercely competitive encounter at Stamford Bridge.
RESULTS OF GAMEWEEK 22 MATCHES
